Civil War re-enactors to camp at Wild West City
Byram. The heritage theme park will commemorate the war’s beginnings 160 years ago with 27th Regiment New Jersey Volunteer encampments throughout the season.
| 03 May 2021 | 04:59
Photo courtesy of The 27th Regiment New Jersey Volunteer Reenactors
Photo courtesy of The 27th Regiment New Jersey Volunteer Reenactors
Photo courtesy of The 27th Regiment New Jersey Volunteer Reenactors
The shelling of Fort Sumter on April 12, 1861, marked the beginning of the American Civil War. One hundred and sixty years later, Wild West City in Byram will be highlighting the War of the States on a semi-regular basis starting in May with periodic encampments by the 27th Regiment New Jersey Volunteer reenactors.
Formed in 1862, the 27th was the largest regiment from New Jersey and late in the year fought in the battle of Fredericksburg, Va., from Dec. 11 to 15. It was a losing battle for the Union, which suffered major losses.
Visitors are welcome to talk with the re-enactors about the hardships of war in the 1860s. The 27th Regiment re-enactors, based out of Hackettstown, frequently take part in events throughout New Jersey and beyond. It is expected that about 20 participants will participate at Wild West City beginning the weekend of May 15-16.
The encampment is part of the regular admission fee, which also includes more than 20 different live-action shows, crowd participation, demonstrations, and museum-quality exhibits.
Wild West City, celebrating its 64th year, is a heritage theme park recreating 1880s life in Dodge City, Kansas, with recreations of famous scenes; train, stagecoach and pony rides; and educational exhibits. The park is now open on weekends, and will open daily starting on Father’s Day Weekend and extending through Labor Day.
Wild West City is located at 50 Lackawanna Drive, in Byram Township. For more information visit wildwestcity.com